School Security

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CCTV Systems, Access Control, Intruder Alarms and More

At ai-security we understand that a school should and must be a ‘safe space’ for its children; a space where children and staff feel secure, protected and free from fear or threat. Parents must feel at ease when they drop their children off at the school gates. With knife crime and school violence on the rise across London and the Essex areas, it is imperative that schools and educational institutions review and upgrade their security measures to meet the challenges of today.

CCTV camera
CCTV camera

Every employer is required by law to assess the risks to the health and safety of employees and others, and to take steps to eliminate or reduce those risks. This could derive from poor security arrangements, such as dangers from intruders, or risks from unsafe premises or equipment.

Security arrangements should be reviewed regularly, and at least annually. Many schools have independent, isolated or temporary buildings, multiple entrances, poor fencing and public access out of hours. Schools need to consider what measures they have in place in case of an emergency. Measures need to be in place to deal with a violent incident, terrorist attack, intruder, fire, lockdown or closing down procedure as a vital part of its security arrangements.

As a leading security company in London and the South East, we have worked with a number of schools to provide security services that are robust and comprehensive. Our tailored security solutions are aimed at being a deterrent for any violent or threatening behaviour; either internally or by an external offender. Along with school management, we undertake a detailed risk assessment to determine how and where we believe, security needs to be enhanced.

There are a number of cost-effective measures that can be put in place and in this article, we’ll take you through them.

woman using desktop

Access Control Systems
For Schools

Access control systems provide security to a premise by allowing flexible control over who is able to get into the building and at what times. It also allows for determining different access areas for different people. Staff and teachers may be allowed into restricted areas, whilst students may not. Staff and students could be issued with pre-programmed entry cards or key fobs that allow them into different school buildings. This not only controls who enters the different areas of the school but allows the school to keep a record of movement in case of any mishap or incident.

Access control systems are computer-based with an electronic card/fob access control system that provides “access cards/fobs”, to permit access into secured areas. There is a range of additional options available for granting access including PIN codes with keypads, radio frequency fobs and biometrics such as fingerprint or facial recognition.

We recommend installing a Network Access Control System, where access is controlled from a central point or computer via a network. In the event of a card or fob being misplaced, it’s easy to disable it and issue another one so that anyone finding the lost card or fob will not be able to use it for access.

The primary benefit of a door access control system is its high-level of security and flexibility. Additionally, a well-planned system can provide useful reporting and data collection and is one of the most cost-effective measures of security.

woman using desktop

Access Control Systems
For Schools

Access control systems provide security to a premise by allowing flexible control over who is able to get into the building and at what times. It also allows for determining different access areas for different people. Staff and teachers may be allowed into restricted areas, whilst students may not. Staff and students could be issued with pre-programmed entry cards or key fobs that allow them into different school buildings. This not only control who enters the different areas of the school but allows the school to keep a record of movement in case of any mishap or incident.

Access control systems are computer-based with an electronic card/fob access control system that provides “access cards/fobs”, to permit access into secured areas. There is a range of additional options available for granting access including PIN codes with keypads, radio frequency fobs and biometrics such as fingerprint or facial recognition.

We recommend installing a Network Access Control System, where access is controlled from a central point or computer via a network. In the event of a card or fob being misplaced, it’s easy to disable it and issue another one so that anyone finding the lost card or fob will not be able to use it for access.

The primary benefit of a door access control system is its high-level of security and flexibility. Additionally, a well-planned system can provide useful reporting and data collection and is one of the most cost-effective measures of security.

CCTV camera with building in the background

CCTV Systems
For Schools

The value of installing CCTV, especially in a school setting, should not be underestimated. Not only is it an effective deterrent, but it is one of the most powerful instruments in detecting unsocial and criminal behaviour and apprehending the perpetrators. As a leading CCTV installation company, we have been working with several schools to design robust systems to meet their specific requirements.

With technology moving at a rapid pace, CCTV systems have become more intelligent with the capability of providing invaluable information for crime detection and prevention. There are many types of CCTV cameras and recorders, for example dome and bullet cameras and the option to connect via your computer network.

In a school setting, CCTV’s are particularly useful for a number of reasons including:

At ai security, we understand how stressful and disconcerting an emergency can be, especially when it involves your security systems and the safety of your staff, equipment and premises. We are therefore available 24 hours, seven days a week on the telephone- call 01702 476700.

Whether you need a one-off emergency repair or regular support on a contract basis, we offer a responsive and professional service for fixing any faults with your electronic security equipment and systems installed by us or those from other providers.

With the ability to monitor a site 24 hours, CCTV’s can give parents, staff and pupils peace of mind that incidents will be caught on camera. CCTV can be used to make sure that school rules are being adhered to and that pupils stay safe whilst avoiding any potential accidents.

The presence of visible CCTV cameras can work to deter criminals or intruders from breaking and entering, stealing or committing any other crime. CCTV technology has improved dramatically in the last few years. Improved image resolution has resulted in several more criminals being identified and apprehended.

Whilst unwelcome visitors can be kept out of the school through access control systems, they cannot legally be removed from outside the school. CCTV cameras at the school peripheries can capture images of those loitering outside the school gates.

Bullying is a problem in most schools. If pupils know that their actions can be viewed on CCTV, they are less likely to initiate bullying activities.

If there is an emergency in the school that requires an evacuation, then the CCTV footage can still be accessed remotely. This can help staff to check that everyone has left the building safely. If there is anyone still inside, the emergency services can use CCTV to locate and evacuate them.

CCTV can act as a preventive tool, if the parents and students know that they will be caught on CCTV if they misbehave.

It is important to mention that for CCTV to be effective, they must be visible, and staff, students and parents must be made aware of their presence. It is also important that they be regularly maintained and serviced to ensure full working order at the time of any incident.

CCTV installations in schools has been a controversial issue for many as a breach of privacy, however when used in the right way, CCTV can have a positive impact.

man facing monitor

CCTV Checklist For Schools

Contact the
ai security team

Contact the
ai security team

Regularly checking the condition of your CCTV cameras ensures they will be functioning when you need them most. But how do you know what to check on your CCTV cameras, and what do you do if there’s a problem?

We have created a free CCTV checklist for schools to download. If you have any concerns with the CCTV systems at your school, call our experienced ai-security team.

Vehicle Barriers And
Gates For Schools

Automated vehicle barriers and gates can be essential in a school or educational institution setting. They are an effective method of controlling who enters and exits the school premises, particularly cars and delivery vehicles. They are also one of the most useful ways of controlling parking on school premises. Security barriers or gates are the first line of security for your school security together with your boundary fencing.

Automated Gates and barriers can be installed at every entrance or access point to the school but smaller, less used entrances could be fitted with a simple combination lock or access control system.

There are a range of security barriers available, and our team will assess the risks associated with your school premises and budget before making recommendations for the exact type of automated gates or barriers you should install.

car barrier

Some of the commonly used gates and barriers for schools and educational institutions are:

barrier icon

Automated vehicle
barrier most commonly used in car parks

sliding gate icon

Sliding gates

leaf gates icon

Single or double
leaf gates

fire alarm

Fire Alarms
For Schools

Clearly it is important for an effective fire alarm system, to be operated in any space inhabited by young children.

The government has issued specific guidelines and regulations with regards to fire safety and risk assessment in schools, nurseries and any form of academic institution. In summary, educational institutions are required to undertake risk assessments to identify general fire precautions needed to safeguard occupants in case of fire, including their safe means of escape.

You will have procedures in place to reduce the likelihood of fire we can maintain fire detection and alarm systems to ensure emergency evacuation procedures are executed successfully.

We supply and install a range of fire alarm systems; but the most common used in schools are Addressable Fire Alarm Systems.

Addressable systems offer flexibility and accuracy in detecting the location and extent of a fire as each part has its own unique identifier. This system is ideal for larger facilities because they can quickly pinpoint the location of the fire based on the identifier that triggers off the alarm. Systems can be hardwired or wireless. Wireless Systems are the quickest and easiest to install.

The benefits of a well-maintained and intelligent fire alarm system are obvious. In addition to compliance with building regulations and school fire safety requirements, they prevent false fire alarms. Additionally they can pin point where exactly a fire started.

fire alarm

Fire Alarms
For Schools

Clearly it is important for an effective fire alarm system, to be operated in any space inhabited by young children.

The government has issued specific guidelines and regulations with regards to fire safety and risk assessment in schools, nurseries and any form of academic institution. In summary, educational institutions are required to undertake risk assessments to identify general fire precautions needed to safeguard occupants in case of fire, including their safe means of escape.

You will have procedures in place to reduce the likelihood of fire we can maintain fire detection and alarm systems to ensure emergency evacuation procedures are executed successfully.

We supply and install a range of fire alarm systems; but the most common used in schools are Addressable Fire Alarm Systems.

Addressable systems offer flexibility and accuracy in detecting the location and extent of a fire as each part has its own unique identifier. This system is ideal for larger facilities because they can quickly pinpoint the location of the fire based on the identifier that triggers off the alarm. Systems can be hardwired or wireless. Wireless Systems are the quickest and easiest to install.

The benefits of a well-maintained and intelligent fire alarm system are obvious. In addition to compliance with building regulations and school fire safety requirements, they prevent false fire alarms. Additionally they can pin point where exactly a fire started.

intruder alarm

Intruder Alarms
For Schools

Schools, colleges and universities across the UK have made large investments in equipment, including computers, music, art or technology and data. Obviously it is essential to prevent intruders breaking and entering and stealing these valuable assets.

Schools and educational institutions are particularly vulnerable as they are empty at night and have long periods of ‘no occupation’ during school holidays. Installation of intruder alarms are therefore mandatory.

Our intruder alarm systems aim to protect the school premises 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, by deterring intruders, triggering an alarm and even setting off a visual warning such as flashing lights and notifying someone to attend urgently.

Alarm systems can be both wired and wireless. We can also set up your system to automatically inform an approved alarm receiving centre if security is breached. In turn, the centre will alert the police or contact an assigned person such as a key holder, third party security firm or monitoring centre. Having a high quality intruder alarm system in place can also result in lower insurance premiums for the institution.

The type of alarm system your school needs will depend on a variety of factors including size of school and area of space, school budget, the location of the school and the crime levels in the area.

Usually educational premises that require a high level of security are likely to opt for a higher grade intruder alarm system which are more sophisticated, advanced and intelligent systems.

intruder alarm

Intruder Alarms
For Schools

Schools, colleges and universities across the UK have made large investments in equipment, including computers, music, art or technology and data. Obviously it is essential to prevent intruders breaking and entering and stealing these valuable assets.

Schools and educational institutions are particularly vulnerable as they are empty at night and have long periods of ‘no occupation’ during school holidays. Installation of intruder alarms are therefore mandatory.

Our intruder alarm systems aim to protect the school premises 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, by deterring intruders, triggering an alarm and even setting off a visual warning such as flashing lights and notifying someone to attend urgently.

Alarm systems can be both wired and wireless. We can also set up your system to automatically inform an approved alarm receiving centre if security is breached. In turn, the centre will alert the police or contact an assigned person such as a key holder, third party security firm or monitoring centre. Having a high quality intruder alarm system in place can also result in lower insurance premiums for the institution.

The type of alarm system your school needs will depend on a variety of factors including size of school and area of space, school budget, the location of the school and the crime levels in the area.

Usually educational premises that require a high level of security are likely to opt for a higher grade intruder alarm system which are more sophisticated, advanced and intelligent systems.

screwing cctv camera

Security Systems
Maintenance And Repair

CCTV’s, intruder alarm and fire alarm systems, security gates and barriers and access control systems, require a sizable monetary investment. It is therefore vital that these be regularly maintained and serviced so that they are always in good working order.

Equipment that is left unattended for long periods of time without regular care and maintenance can malfunction and leave your premises vulnerable. If you find something is not working, ensure you get it repaired as soon as possible.

Whether you need a one-off emergency repair or regular support, ai-security offers a responsive and professional 24/7 service for fixing any faults with your electronic equipment systems, CCTV equipment and door entry systems whether they were installed by us or not.

We can also offer our popular PPM (planned preventive maintenance) service, which enables regular maintenance via our diary system.

Our excellent customer support includes a dedicated team to take your calls, a 24 hour monitored telephone number and an out-of-hours service so that we’re on hand whenever you need assistance. Our team of engineers are accredited and certified by Safe Contractor, and can often fix any fault in a single visit. When this is not possible (for example, if specialist parts need to be ordered), we will provide a specific and reasonable time frame and cost to fix your fault.

We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week on the telephone. Should you need any emergency assistance please do not hesitate to call us… our dedicated customer support team will assess your situation on the phone and despatch one of our trained and highly experienced engineers to your premises as soon as possible.

Our skilled engineers can undertake repair work on systems installed by us or those from other providers. Our primary concern is to get your system back in working order so that you can go back to feeling safe and secure.

screwing cctv camera

Security Systems
Maintenance And Repair

CCTV’s, intruder alarm and fire alarm systems, security gates and barriers and access control systems, require a sizable monetary investment. It is therefore vital that these be regularly maintained and serviced so that they are always in good working order.

Equipment that is left unattended for long periods of time without regular care and maintenance can malfunction and leave your premises vulnerable. If you find something is not working, ensureyou get it repaired as soon as possible.

Whether you need a one-off emergency repair or regular support, ai-security offers a responsive and professional 24/7 service for fixing any faults with your electronic equipment systems, CCTV equipment and door entry systems whether they were installed by us or not.

We can also offer our popular PPM (planned preventive maintenance) service, which enables regular maintenance via our diary system.

Our excellent customer support includes a dedicated team to take your calls, a 24 hour monitored telephone number and an out-of-hours service so that we’re on hand whenever you need assistance. Our team of engineers are accredited and certified by Safe Contractor, and can often fix any fault in a single visit. When this is not possible (for example, if specialist parts need to be ordered), we will provide a specific and reasonable time frame and cost to fix your fault.

We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week on the telephone. Should you need any emergency assistance please do not hesitate to call us… our dedicated customer support team will assess your situation on the phone and despatch one of our trained and highly experienced engineers to your premises as soon as possible.

Our skilled engineers can undertake repair work on systems installed by us or those from other providers. Our primary concern is to get your system back in working order so that you can go back to feeling safe and secure.

man facing monitor

Have You Downloaded Your Security in Schools Checklist?

Contact the
ai security team

Contact the
ai security team

Don’t forget to download our free and comprehensive security in schools checklist! If you identify any problems with your security system when working through the checklist, call our team.

School Security Tips

2 students reading notes

School Security During the Holidays

With school holidays fast approaching, schools should be thinking about securing their premises for the break. This ensures that your buildings and all of the

CCTV on the wall

Checklist to Review Your CCTV System

You may have completed our CCTV Maintenance Checklist that we published recently. This checklist was designed to help you maintain your current system, keeping it

inVentry logo

Visitor management is an important part of security. It involves recording the usage of your facilities including who enters and exits the building. Useful in a variety of settings, visitor management is a great option for security-conscious companies that want to gain greater control and insight into the movement of people on their premises. InVentry is a visitor management tool that ensures you can keep track of who is on your site at all times. It comes with a stylish 20-inch touch screen, integrated webcam, badge printing and more. InVentry requires visitors to sign in to register their arrival, then check-out. It also prints out a personalised badge that easily identifies the visitors. To learn more, contact ai security today!

tablet, monitor and mobile phone
tablet, monitor and mobile phone inVentry logo

Visitor management is an important part of security. It involves recording the usage of your facilities including who enters and exits the building. Useful in a variety of settings, visitor management is a great option for security-conscious companies that want to gain greater control and insight into the movement of people on their premises. InVentry is a visitor management tool that ensures you can keep track of who is on your site at all times. It comes with a stylish 20-inch touch screen, integrated webcam, badge printing and more. InVentry requires visitors to sign in to register their arrival, then check-out. It also prints out a personalised badge that easily identifies the visitors. To learn more, contact ai security today!

Our Security Clients Across The UK

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Looking For Security Systems For Your School?

Contact the
ai security team

Contact the
ai security team

To learn more about ai security or to enquire about our school security services, call 01702 476700 today or leave an enquiry. We proudly offer our services across the UK, including in London, Essex and the Home Counties.
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